Lost Cargo Truck Accidents

Whenever a truck spills its cargo, it makes the news because of the traffic jams it causes. Recent lost cargo accidents have included trucks spilling fuel, milk, oil, and asphalt. There have also been accidents involving spilled pasta, onions, beer, and live animals.

While these types of truck accidents make for compelling visuals for the local news, they can also trigger chain reaction collisions and lead to serious injury or even fatalities.

Here are the facts about lost cargo truck accidents according to data collected by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA):

• 3,000 truck accidents happen each year due to shifting, falling, or spilling cargo
• 1,000 injuries are attributed to improperly loaded cargo
• 30% of truck accidents involving a driver’s loss of control are triggered by a sudden cargo shift

Why Do Trucks Lose Cargo?

Do you ever get anxious when driving behind a large truck with an open trailer bed? You’re right to want to change lanes out of an abundance of caution. You might feel a bit safer traveling behind a contained trailer, but there are still risks involving any cargo that is not properly secured.

Everyone involved in the transportation of any goods or materials must follow the strict rules set by the FMCSA regarding cargo securement. If loose cargo falls off the vehicle, the results can be catastrophic for anyone on the road. There is also an increased risk of unbalanced cargo, making trucks more likely to roll over or jackknife. If any passing car is caught up in that type of collision, it can be especially devastating.

There are several factors that contribute to lost cargo truck accidents, including the following:

Negligent Loading

Typically, independent crews are hired to load cargo onto the truck. If those crews fail to secure it correctly, the cargo can become unstable during transport.

Inadequate Equipment

Cargo can’t just be packed into a truck and hope it stays in place. It needs to be secured with straps and tie-downs. If the securing devices are insufficient or defective, it can lead to cargo shifting during a sharp turn or a steep incline.

Overloading

Truckers are under enormous pressure to deliver as much as possible on every trip. Unfortunately, when you put too much weight onto a trailer, it can strain the tie-downs. That increases the risk of tire blowouts and the loss of control of the rig.

Improper Inspection

Trucks and their cargo go through regular inspections. If those inspections are neglected or bypassed, such as by skipping a weigh station, it can create conditions that lead to accidents.

Poor Road Conditions

Uneven or poorly maintained roads can trigger cargo shifts or loss. That might not be the driver’s fault, but it could make the agencies responsible for maintaining those roads liable for the accident.

When a Lost Cargo Accident Claim Is Challenged

If it can be established that problems with cargo securement were a major factor in your accident, you might face challenges with an insurance company. They will try to shift the blame and not fulfill the obligations of their policy. That becomes an issue that an insurance bad faith lawyer can support.

The Law Office of Matthew L. Sharp has years of experience dealing with insurance carriers who try to deny or delay settlements. When we agree to work with a truck accident victim, it is because we’re confident of the outcome. We are not intimidated by taking on big insurance companies and will always fight to ensure our clients receive the maximum benefits.

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident or are having problems with an insurance company, we want to hear from you.

Contact us today to set up a free case review.